Paul Zalai, director of the Freight and Trade Alliance that represents importers, exporters, freight forwarders and logistics companies, says they value speed and predictability, and would be open to paying more for rail transport if Aurizon could meet their needs.
"The Aurizon proposal has the potential for faster stock delivery than traditional services and would free up shipping lines from completing extended voyages around Australia," Zalai says, adding that rail could also be an alternative mode of transport to sea freight for agricultural exporters.
"Whether this translates to economic modelling to make the land-bridging commercially viable will only be known as the project unfolds."
Importers and exporters are already reassessing supply chains to meet environmental targets and avoid future port congestion as governments encourage companies to cut carbon emissions.FTA/APSA Media release below READ MORE